Add parallel Print Page Options

23 
For the commandment is a lamp, and the teaching [of the law] is light,
And reproofs (rebukes) for discipline are the way of life,(A)
24 
To keep you from the evil woman,
From [the flattery of] the smooth tongue of an immoral woman.
25 
Do not desire (lust after) her beauty in your heart,
Nor let her capture you with her eyelashes.
26 
For on account of a prostitute one is reduced to a piece of bread [to be eaten up],
And the immoral woman hunts [with a hook] the precious life [of a man].
27 
Can a man take fire to his chest
And his clothes not be burned?
28 
Or can a man walk on hot coals
And his feet not be scorched?
29 
So is the one who goes in to his neighbor’s wife;
Whoever touches her will not be found innocent or go unpunished.
30 
People do not despise a thief if he steals
To satisfy himself when he is hungry;
31 
But when he is found, he must repay seven times [what he stole];
He must give all the property of his house [if necessary to meet his fine].
32 
But whoever commits adultery with a woman lacks common sense and sound judgment and an understanding [of moral principles];
He who would destroy his soul does it.
33 
Wounds and disgrace he will find,
And his reproach (blame) will not be blotted out.
34 
For jealousy enrages the [wronged] husband;
He will not spare [the guilty one] on the day of vengeance.
35 
He will not accept any ransom [offered to buy him off from demanding full punishment];
Nor will he be satisfied though you offer him many gifts (bribes).

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends